The History of the Franks

The new king of Spain, Recared, made peace with Childebert II, but talks with King Guntram quickly broke down. Another attempt to assassinate King Guntram was foiled. In Tours, a man named Desiderius appeared, claiming to be able to speak to the apostles Peter and Paul and to work miracles. Eventually, Desiderius was exiled. Another “great impostor” (484) claimed to have holy relics from Spain, but his relics were just “moles’ teeth, the bones of mice, bears’ claws and bears’ fat” (485). He was also exiled and eventually imprisoned.

Guntram Boso tried to win over Fredegund, who despised him. When Lothar II ordered Guntram Boso to be killed, he sought sanctuary under Bishop Ageric and was brought to Childebert, who had him detained until King Guntram could see him.

Duke Rauching conspired to overthrow Childebert and Brunhild and, along with his allies the dukes Berthefried and Ursio, become the power behind the throne for Childebert’s two young sons. Guntram somehow learned about the conspiracy and sent messengers to warn Childebert. Rauching was seized and brutally killed. Not knowing that the conspiracy was exposed and Rauching was executed, Ursio and Berthefried raised armies and revolted.